How to Say "tears" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “tears” is “lágrimas” — use this word when referring to the fluid secreted by the eyes, typically due to sadness, joy, or irritation..
English → Spanish
lágrimas
nounA1general
Use this word when referring to the fluid secreted by the eyes, typically due to sadness, joy, or irritation.
Examples
Se le saltaron las lágrimas al escuchar la noticia.
Tears welled up in her eyes when she heard the news.
rotos
/RO-tohs//ˈrotos/
nounB2general
Use this word to describe holes or rips in clothing, indicating damage or wear.
Examples
Tienes un roto en la manga de la camisa.
You have a tear in the sleeve of your shirt.
Mi abuela cosió los rotos de mis calcetines.
My grandmother sewed the tears in my socks.
Crying vs. Ripped Clothes
The most common mistake is using 'rotos' when you mean tears from crying. Remember, 'lágrimas' is for eyes and emotions, while 'rotos' refers specifically to damage in fabric.
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